More than half-a-million in performance bonuses handed out at UFC 129

UFC 129 cemented its place in history this past weekend as the most successful Mixed Martial Arts event to grace a North American arena given the card’s record-breaking attendance and a live gate of over $12 million. Staying in line with the scope of the show, the UFC has issued a quartet of event-specific bonus checks totaling $516,000 to a foursome of deserving athletes who wowed viewers in attendance and at home with their memorable performances in Toronto.

Though facing stiff competition in the category after a number of scintillating strike-based finishes, taking home $129,000 for “Knockout of the Night” was Lyoto Machida for his fight-ending front face kick sending opponent Randy Couture into unconsciousness, retirement, and likely a dentist’s office after losing a tooth in the exchange.

“Fight of the Night” and the attached pair of $129,000 paychecks went to featherweight champion Jose Aldo and courageous contender Mark Hominick for their five round title affair. The two 145ers battled it out for twenty-five minutes in a contest leaving Aldo appearing to be a bit more human than before and Hominick looking slightly less so given his display of heart while suffering from a severely bruised and battered head.

Finally, “Submission of the Night” went to 11-1 Pablo Garza after opening up the event after eventually sinking in a Flying Triangle Choke forcing foe Yves Jabouin to tap out with thirty seconds remaining in the bout’s opening frame.